By Award-Winning Chief Editor and Professional Writer Mathew Zein

CULTURAL CAPITAL
WHY ARMENIA SHOULD BE ON THE RADAR OF
TRAVELING ART ENTREPRENEURS

Last year, I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Fabio Lenzi, an Italian
who relocated to Armenia and settled in Yerevan several years ago. He is the
visionary behind the Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation and its’ A1 Art Space, a
unique cafe, coworking space, and art venue in the heart of Yerevan.

Scrolling through Instagram during my January travels in the Emirates, I stumbled upon a post on A1’s account. It highlighted several upcoming cultural events, including a tango night, art speed dating, a sketching workshop, and a sculpting workshop. What truly captivated me was the realization that all these events were organized by international residents – individuals who, like Fabio, found a home in Armenia and a platform to share their artistic and cultural perspectives through A1.

Immediately, I texted Fabio to learn more about the mastermind behind these events. Hoping to gain a deeper understanding of Yerevan’s cultural landscape, I expressed a strong desire to meet this key figure. He promptly connected me with Nane Taguhi Yeghikyan, the Director of the Yerevan Biennial Art Foundation (YBAF), who, like him, has a vision of A1 being an international hub serving the mission of the foundation: to bridge the worlds of international and local art scenes.

Standing on A1’s balcony overlooking the sun-drenched Abovyan Street, I met Nane a couple of weeks back. Introduced by Fabio, a warm smile lit up the young lady’s face. From the moment our conversation flowed, I knew I could talk to her for hours, even days.

She continued: Stroll through Yerevan, and you’ll witness the majestic architecture of the Soviet era juxtaposed with the sleek minimalism of the modern design.

This duality extends to every aspect of life, from the vibrant street art to the thoughtfully curated galleries. Everywhere you turn, the past resonates alongside the future. It is a time in Yerevan that showcases what the alchemy of the old and new actually looks like, striving to birth the new. This moment in time feels historic as it is a micro example of what can happen globally: to have the strength to “hold the tension of opposites” such as classical art and contemporary art until they merge together and give rise to something completely new, something creative, something that can change the world, as Art often does.

For Nane, the chance to be part of Armenia’s current cultural movement was powerful enough to bring her back from the United States. Now, she resides here with her family, raising her almost two-year-old daughter. This dynamic environment feels deeply meaningful, a place “that is real and raw.” Additionally, her role as director of YBAF grants her access to the world she thrives in, an artistic community where she truly belongs.

I asked Nane why she chose to organize such events in Yerevan. She explained that these events are all part of a broader cultural shift YBAF, through projects like A1, aims to spark within the country. Their mission isn’t merely to contribute to Armenia’s cultural landscape but to actively preserve its heritage while also shedding a spotlight on new and upcoming artists.

This vision welcomes artists from around the world to flourish in Armenia while fostering an appreciation for various artistic expressions among Armenians. Nane points out that A1 Art Space activities are mainly organized by Ani Israelyan, the manager of the space and head of business of YBAF, and through her.

Unlike Buenos Aires’s bustling tango scene, Yerevan hadn’t yet offered regular tango nights for passionate dancers. Similarly, introspective sketching workshops were a rarity in Armenia. A1, however, is changing the landscape. By introducing these unique experiences, they’re not just making them accessible but also infusing them with their signature touch of elegance and class, elevating the cultural atmosphere in the city.

A1’s art speed dating event promised the original concept with a dash of artistic flavor and the venue’s signature class. While I anticipated a predominantly foreign crowd, given the novelty of speed dating in Armenia, I was surprised to learn that almost all participant ladies were Armenians, with just one coming from Russia. This highlighted the subtle cultural shift underway - an openness to adopting foreign concepts when presented with finesse and respect for local sensibilities. A1, through such initiatives, sees itself as a catalyst for this positive change.

Join the blossoming scene, showcase your unique creations, and discover your niche within this vibrant, ever-expanding community. Visit Armenia, along with your art projects, to embrace the opportunity to share your vision in a land rich with culture and beauty.

 Life in Armenia by Mathew Zein